NEMA receives 123 Nigerian returnees from Algeria

The National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA) has reported the arrival of 123 Nigerian returnees from Algeria, facilitated by the Assisted Voluntary Return (AVR) Programme. This initiative, a collaboration between the International Organization for Migration (IOM) and the Federal Government of Nigeria, aims to ensure the safe and dignified return of distressed Nigerian citizens.

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the National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA), Lagos Operations Office, has received 123 Nigerian returnees from Algeria under the ongoing Assisted Voluntary Return (AVR) Programme facilitated by the International Organization for Migration (IOM) in collaboration with the Federal Government of Nigeria.

The returnees arrived at the Cargo Terminal of the Murtala Muhammed International Airport in Ikeja, Lagos, on a Monday aboard a Nesma Airlines flight. The group comprised 121 adults, consisting of 112 males and nine females, along with one female child and one male infant. This follows a similar reception in July 2025, when NEMA received 104 Nigerian returnees from Algeria.

Upon arrival, officials from the Nigeria Immigration Service (NIS) conducted biometric registration and documentation for the returnees. This process is crucial for record-keeping and supporting their eventual reintegration into society. NEMA stated that the exercise was coordinated in partnership with the National Commission for Refugees, Migrants and Internally Displaced Persons (NCFRMI) and other relevant government bodies.

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the returnees arrived at the Cargo Terminal of the Murtala Muhammed International Airport, Ikeja, Lagos, on Monday aboard a Nesma Airlines flight as part of efforts to ensure the safe, dignified and orderly return of distressed Nigerians.

In line with the Federal Government's commitment to the welfare of its citizens abroad, the returnees received immediate humanitarian assistance. This included provisions of food, potable water, medical screening, ambulance services, luggage handling, and logistics support. Reception and counseling services were also provided to aid their smooth transition back into their communities.

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the returnees comprised 121 adults, including 112 males and nine females, one female child and one male infant.

NEMA emphasized that this operation underscores its ongoing dedication to coordinating humanitarian interventions and collaborating with partners to facilitate the safe and dignified return of vulnerable Nigerians. The AVR Programme is designed to assist individuals who wish to return to their home country but lack the means to do so.

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in line with the Federal Government’s commitment to the welfare of returning citizens, the returnees received immediate humanitarian assistance, including food, potable water, medical screening, ambulance services, luggage handling, logistics support, as well as reception and counselling services to facilitate their smooth reintegration into society.